Solar group wants more input into review of Westar plan

Topeka  A solar advocacy group says it doesn't agree with a decision by Kansas regulators to limit the group's input over a large utility's rate plan to boost rates.

The Kansas Corporation Commission says it will allow the Alliance for Solar Choice, which represents solar businesses, partial access to proceedings over Topeka-based Westar Energy's plan to raise rates by $152 million.

KCC says the solar group cannot provide expert witnesses, testimony or evidence regarding how much rates rise, but can be part of the second phase of the review involving details of new rate plans and a proposed utility-owned solar farm.